formality: Meaning and Definition of

for•mal•i•ty

Pronunciation: (fôr-mal'i-tē), [key]
— pl. -ties.
  1. condition or quality of being formal; accordance with required or traditional rules, procedures, etc.; conventionality.
  2. rigorously methodical character.
  3. strict adherence to established rules and procedures; rigidity.
  4. observance of form or ceremony.
  5. marked or excessive ceremoniousness.
  6. an established order or method of proceeding: the formalities of judicial process.
  7. a formal act or observance.
  8. something done merely or mainly for form's sake; a requirement of custom or etiquette: the formality of a thank-you note.
Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease.
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